Lancaster University: Lancaster research excellence demonstrated at leading computing conference

A strong contingent of Lancaster University researchers have been demonstrating their work at one of the world’s most prestigious computing conferences.

The annual ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems – which is the premier international conference on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) – brings together researchers and practitioners from across the world to showcase and discuss the latest interactive technology.

This year’s conference, which was due to be held in Yokohama in Japan, was held virtually due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic between May 8th-13th.

A cohort of 28 Lancaster researchers have presented their work at CHI2021, including eight full papers, two of which being awarded Honourable mentions, which recognise the top 5% of submissions. Other Lancaster researchers’ work accepted at the conference included one TOCHI journal presentation, two alt.chi papers, five workshops, one panel, one course, and one special interest group.

The achievements of this year’s cohort, which are drawn from Lancaster’s School of Computing and Communications, Lancaster Environment Centre, and the Lancaster Institute for the Contemporary Arts, continues to build on Lancaster’s strong track-record at CHI over multiple years.

Professor Corina Sas, Assistant Dean for Research Enhancement at Lancaster University’s Faculty of Science and Technology, said: “We are delighted to see once again such a strong presence at CHI 2021, despite the challenges of the last year and their impact on research activities. Such work strengthens Lancaster’s leadership position in HCI research on wearable technologies, fintech technologies and novel interactions applied to health, philanthropy and sustainability.”

Professor Adrian Friday, Head of Lancaster University’s School of Computing and Communications, said: “It makes me proud once again to see such excellent work and another strong contribution to global HCI from my colleagues in the school. To me this demonstrates the incredible talent in HCI we have at Lancaster, and superb to see despite what can only be described as a very challenging year to complete research!”